However, he has recruited former Cleckheaton and Wakefield front row forward Steve Worsley as well as retaining the services of flanker Fraser Hall as he continues building towards the National Three (North) season which kicks off in September.

Knowles, who was the club's leading points scorer last season, looks certain to join Waterloo while Kay has moved to National One outfit Otley.

Both players had looked likely to leave Ovenden Park at the end of last season so their departures have not come as a major surprise.

Knowles, who also topped the National Two goal kicking percentage charts last time out, had hinted that he would stay at Halifax if no decent offer came along.

But a move to a club closer to his Cheshire base was too good to turn down.

"Joe is a great character and I have really enjoyed working with him," said Morgan.

"He is very determined in where he wants to go and what he wants to do.

"I think it was a hard choice for him to make because he has enjoyed it at Halifax.

"And there is certainly no animosity and everybody wishes him well."

Morgan added that Knowles's departure would allow him to bring skipper Danny McGee out of the centre and play him in the full back role.

"Joe's leaving has eased one problem in that I can play Danny at 15," confirmed Morgan.

"He was a full back when he signed for Halifax and I honestly think that is his best position."

Knowles's kicking was a major factor of his game but Morgan has two candidates waiting to step into his boots.

"Iain Gordon is keen as mustard to take on the kicking role and he is being chased very hard by James Endersby," he added.

"Both are working on that aspect of their game and it is great that we have two lads who are willing to step up to the plate."

Kay's departure was also on the cards after he continually stalled on a decision to stay at Halifax. That is why Morgan had plenty of time to line up a replacement.

"Obviously Dave Harrison had a bearing on bringing Steve Worsley to the club having known him from Cleckheaton and I am delighted that we were able to fill a key position so quickly," he added.

Morgan is still talking to a number of players, including winger turned flanker Dan Solomi, who has promised a decision on where his future lies in the next couple of weeks.

"I have shaken hands with a number of players but I won't be singing from the rooftops until they are signed, sealed and delivered," said Morgan.

"We are starting to get there in terms of putting a good squad together and while there are still two or three positions I would like to fill, I am happy with the way things are looking at this moment."